There are times when it may be necessary to have a client visit your home, particularly if you have a showroom or public office in your home. And there may be times when you need to have a business meeting, but still be at home to keep an eye on the kids. This is when the home business lunch comes into play.

Food is a great bonding mechanism. We tend to feel closer to people we eat with and that is why it is the ideal way to negotiate with a client or business partner. Inviting them into your home can only cement the relationship.

How exactly do you go about holding a business lunch in your home? It can be tricky to pull off that professional tone in your own kitchen, but a lunch can be just the thing to give your client a glimpse of who you really are.

While older children can sit in on the lunch, it is generally better to have the kids eat in another room. Just this once, let them lunch in front of the television. Or, consider having lunch in your office for an even more formal atmosphere.

Have the food prepared ahead of time so you aren’t getting messy while your client is sitting at the table. Sandwiches are nice and easy and can be done up ahead of time. Do a quick online search to find some high-end sandwiches that you can whip up. A plate of veggies with dip is a good way to keep your guest occupied while you are finishing up last minute things or serving drinks.

If you are a good cook, you may find people returning just for the food. This happened to my father. He had a music studio and people would flock to it, not for him, but for my mother’s wonderful brownies, cookies and bruchetta! Good food makes a good impression and can actually have a positive benefit on your business relationships.

The next time you realize that a meeting is in order, but can’t leave the kids, why not try a home business lunch?